Hospital deserves better over class action

For nearly 30 years I have been aware of the extraordinary care provided for patients at Mary Health of the Sick Convalescent and Nursing Hospital.

This remarkable caregiving facility reflects the selfless dedication of the Servants of Mary Registered Nurse nuns, as well as the devoted care provided by the dedicated staff. This skilled nursing facility has the highest possible overall rating from Medicare.gov.

In appreciation for the work they do, my family built a chapel garden in the spring of 2000 as a quiet retreat for the staff and nuns. I served two terms on an advisory board while the facility was undergoing a major upgrade. Others in the community have given far more than we have in their time, talent and treasure, a testament to the fact that Mary Health of the Sick Convalescent and Nursing Hospital is truly a wonderful gem in our community.

If the alleged procedural errors actually occurred, they of course should be corrected. The unfortunate thing in my opinion is that the situation was not resolved with simple discussion and, if necessary, obtaining assistance from the many regulatory agencies that oversee and enforce skilled nursing hospitals’ operations.

Sadly, attorneys became involved and initiated a class action suit. The resulting $345,000 settlement gives over two-thirds of the money to the plaintiffs’ attorneys.

What a sad commentary on class-action predators in our legal system. Hopefully some of the attorneys’ fees will be donated to the facility, and members of the community will also step up to help replenish the lost funds that could be so much better used in patient care.

Vern Dransfeldt, Santa Rosa Valley

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